The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) fans are as partial to a bit of drama as they are to a vajazzle, however a juicy new piece of behind the scenes gossip might just leave them gobsmacked.
As season 22 approaches – how is that actually possible? – the show is planning a cull so savage, it makes Game of Thrones’ The Red Wedding seem like a fun night out in Marbs.
According to The Sun, a record-breaking SEVEN favourites will not be returning to the show, including Chris Clark, Amber Dowding, and Mario Falcone. Jack Rigden, Jordan Brook, Maddie Hooper and Ruby Lacey have also faced the cold, hard Es-axe.
The reasoning behind this human clear up is to revamp the show, which has been running since 2010 if you can believe it.
After all, even the most glamorous of Brentwood babes need an extra layer of lippy every now and then.
The UK’s answer to The Hills is planning a refocus, with the limelight firmly on main cast members – such as reality telly veteran Gemma Collins. (I’m sure many fans of the endlessly meme-able lady will be breathing a sigh of relief).
A source told The Sun:
TOWIE is like a revolving door and producers are always on the lookout for new faces that can keep the show fresh.
Chris and Amber have left the series as a couple who’ve just moved into an apartment together – and often being in a happy relationship doesn’t work for the show.
The source continued:
Mike is also loved-up with a girlfriend off camera and has no real storylines to bring to the show but will continue to focus on his fitness and personal training.
Producers thought Jack and Jordan were really funny and had great potential but they were lost against the bigger characters and unfortunately didn’t make the final cut.
Maddie and Ruby only appeared in a few episodes last series and failed to resonate with viewers.
Ouch. This rejection is more painful than when James ‘Arg’ Argent snubbed GC’s offer to jet off to Tenerife together back in season 21…
TOWIE’s official spokesperson has said:
There are a number of cast who have mutually agreed their time on the show has come to a natural end for now.
We wish them well and look forward to another exciting year ahead for Towie.
Fan favourites such as Gemma Collins, Amber Turner, Bobby Norris, Courtney Green and Myles Barnett will reportedly be playing a central role going forward. Who knows what’s next for the glossy haired gang?
Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.